The Eleventh Day of Christmas – Do a Good Turn by Playing Secret Santa

The 12 Days of a Scout Christmas has become one of our favorite traditions on the Voice of Scouting, and we hope you will visit every day, beginning Friday, Dec 14, to find inspiring Christmas messages based on doing a good turn daily. On the eleventh day of Christmas, we would like to share with you ways you can do a good turn by bringing Christmas to those less fortunate than you.

The Eleventh Day of Christmas

There is one Christmas from my childhood that stands out more than any other. My dad had lost his job, and providing Christmas for seven kids on a shoestring budget wasn’t going to be an easy feat. We were all feeling the strain.

Then partway through the month, small anonymous gifts started showing up on the porch for the twelve days of Christmas. They were mostly little things, like groceries or ornaments. Every day we’d try to catch the person leaving them, but we never managed to get to the door before they got away. On Christmas Eve, they left a big box with presents for each family member. I remember getting a new coat. But most of all, I remember feeling so impressed by the neighbors who had banded together to make sure we’d be okay.

Secret Santa

Do you have a friend or neighbor that could use some extra help this holiday? Consider playing secret Santa by giving them gifts, treats, or anonymous service. The best part about playing Santa is that if you don’t have money to spend, you don’t have to. Did it snow last night? Get up extra early and shovel the driveway for them. Make a handmade card. Do something that makes them feel loved.

Has spent several years as a merit badge counselor, several summers as a waterfront director, and her whole life wishing she could do the Pinewood Derby with her 6 brothers. She joined the Utah National Parks Council as a Grant Writer to get her chance.